On a hot August Saturday in Irmo, the parking lot outside American Legion Post 174 filled early with rows of gleaming classic cars. Families strolled past polished ’57 Chevys and roaring muscle machines, while a lively cornhole game drew cheers. Veterans shook hands, swapped stories, and greeted neighbors.
It looked like a festival—and in many ways, it was. But for the members of Post 174, their Annual Classic Car Show is more than just a good time. It’s a fundraiser supporting scholarships, youth programs, and assistance for veterans in need. Community fun with a mission—an example of what the American Legion is all about.
Founded in 1919 by veterans returning from World War I, the American Legion has long served as the voice of those who served—helping to secure the GI Bill, advocate for healthcare, and support veterans as they transition back to civilian life.
But the Legion’s heartbeat is local—in posts like Irmo’s—where veterans gather not just to reminisce, but to keep serving.
A Family of Service
At Post 174, you’ll find veterans from every era—men and women who served in Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf, and more recent conflicts. What unites them is a simple truth: service doesn’t end when the uniform comes off.
“It’s family,” says Post Commander Matthew Schellenger. “You can walk in, sit down, and the people around you understand—even if you’ve never met before.”
That fellowship is one of the Post’s greatest strengths. Many veterans miss the camaraderie of military life. Post 174 brings that back—while channeling it into community service.
Community, Connection, and Tradition
The Classic Car Show is just one of many beloved community events the Post sponsors each year. There’s the Chili Cook-Off, where Irmo’s best chefs—amateur and professional—battle for bragging rights and a good cause. The Cornhole Contest draws fierce but friendly competition. Golfers look forward to the Annual Golf Outing, and anglers cast their lines for big prizes at the Bass Fishing Tournament on nearby Lake Murray.
Families especially love the Ice Cream and Popcorn Social, a summertime tradition that brings veterans and residents together for simple fun and good company.
Beyond events, Post members visit schools to teach students about patriotism and citizenship. They support local law enforcement, stand shoulder-to-shoulder with first responders, and quietly help one another—driving an older veteran to a doctor’s appointment, fixing a creaky step, or walking a comrade through VA paperwork.
These acts may not make headlines, but they strengthen the fabric of the community—veterans helping veterans, and neighbors helping neighbors.
Carrying the Mission Forward
Membership in the American Legion is open to anyone who has served at least one day of active duty since December 7, 1941, with an honorable discharge. Post 174 welcomes younger veterans and those recently separated from service, who are deeply needed to carry the mission forward.
The Post Hall also serves as an affordable event venue for weddings, graduations, birthdays, and community gatherings. Rental information is available at post174irmo.org.
Irmo is a growing town with a strong civic spirit. As the community expands, so does the need for organizations like Post 174. With every new member, the Post gains new energy and ideas. With every event, it strengthens its bond with the town. And with every act of service, it fulfills the Legion’s timeless promise: to never forget veterans and to keep serving.
So what is the American Legion? It’s not just a hall or a club—it’s a living promise that service never ends, that camaraderie can be found again, and that veterans always have a place to belong.
Here in Irmo, Post 174 is proof of that. Whether through car shows, chili cook-offs, cornhole contests, or quiet acts of kindness, it embodies the best of what the Legion stands for.
For veterans wondering where they fit in after military life, the answer may be closer than they think. Post 174 is waiting—ready to welcome them home and continue the mission.
SIDEBAR: Join the Mission
American Legion Post 174 – Irmo, SC
📍 801 Old Bush River Rd., Irmo, SC
🌐 post174irmo.org
📞 Contact: Commander Matthew Schellenger
Membership Eligibility:
- Served at least one day of active duty since Dec. 7, 1941
- Honorable discharge required
Annual Community Events:
- Classic Car Show
- Chili Cook-Off
- Cornhole Contest
- Golf Outing
- Bass Fishing Tournament
- Ice Cream & Popcorn Social
Programs Supported:
🎓 Scholarships • 👨👩👧 Youth Programs • 🇺🇸 Veteran Assistance
Feature photo is Dennis and Tami Davis winning entry in the car show.
